Haiti: Student protest in Cap-Haïtien November 18

Event

Schools have been closed in the city of Cap-Haïtien since November 13 due to an ongoing strike by teachers. The closures have provoked at least three protests by angry students. Students are threatening to hold another protest in the city on Saturday, November 18. During a protest on November 15, students blocked roads leading into the city - resulting in major traffic congestion. Similar actions are likely on Saturday, which could interrupt a ceremony commemorating the Battle of Vertière (a major battle of the Haitian Revolution that occurred on November 18, 1803). As with all protests in Haiti, clashes between security forces and demonstrators are possible, along with other violent incidents.

Context

Numerous strikes and protests have broken out in Haiti in recent months, notably regarding the adoption of the controversial 2017-2018 budget, as well as a corruption scandal involving USD 2 billion in embezzled aid from Venezuela intended to be used for recovery efforts following the 2010 earthquake. The striking teachers are demanding back pay, increased job security, and enforcement of a law that stipulates free and obligatory secondary education for all residents.

Advice

Individuals in Haiti are advised to strictly avoid all protests and rallies due to the high likelihood of violence.